Marco van Basten claimed that he was delighted with his entire squad after a 2-0 victory over Romania.
Dutch boss delighted with progress
Marco van Basten claimed that he was delighted with his entire squad after a 2-0 victory over Romania.
The win ensured that the Holland boss saw his side take maximum points from the so-called 'Group of Death', a fine achievement for a team written off before the tournament got under way.
The allegations of in-fighting and a move away from the 'Total Football' philosophy have proven to be unfounded, with the Dutch arguably the most impressive side heading into the quarter-finals.
Against Romania, a nation who saw their last eight aspirations dashed in Berne, Van Basten made nine changes to the XI which had disposed of France so clinically four days earlier.
It made little difference as, although not at their best, they proved far too strong for Victor Piturca's defensive-minded team.
Self-confidence
Klaas Jan Huntelaar and Robin van Persie got the goals, a timely reminder from both men of their ability heading into the knock-out stages.
Van Basten will undoubtedly face a selection headache on Saturday having fully utilised his squad during the group fixtures, but admits that it is a dilemma any of his counterparts would love to have.
"It is great for us because we played well once again," he said, "We have had three excellent matches with different players.
"The start wasn't perfect (against Romania) but we played well and won. I'm very pleased with the whole squad.
"We deserved to win, it shows our strengths and gives us self-confidence."
